Inspection of Gas Pipeline Operator Facilities

(1)Priority in inspections will be given to those systems and plants with greater risk potential. The following factors will be considered in determining potential risk: the size of the plant or system and the number of customers it serves, the ratio of total pipe to cathodically protected pipe, the ratio of total pipe to coated pipe, the leaks per mile of main, the percentage of unaccounted-for gas volume, and the number of past accidents.#

(2)Inspections will include reviews of the operator’s standard practices and records concerning design, construction, operation, maintenance, inspection, emergency procedures, and damage prevention programs. Field inspections may include, but are not limited to: checks of cathodic protection levels, construction practices, barricading or protection of equipment from damage, witnessing operational checks of overpressure protection and regulating equipment, odorization, leak surveys, and other field functions. Any documentation, records, or physical evidence necessary to support allegations of noncompliance may be obtained by the investigator during the inspection or at any later date.#